Mike Smith a game-time decision for Game 3

The Phoenix Coyotes need Mike Smith more than almost any other player on their team.

By Adam Gretz

Apr 17, 2012 at 1:54 pm ET • 1 min read

Maybe it's gamesmanship, maybe it's a legitimate cause for concern.

Either way, Phoenix Coyotes coach Dave Tippett announced on Tuesday that goaltender Mike Smith will be a game-time decision for Game 3 on Tuesday night. Smith did take part in the morning skate, which could be a good sign for his availability.

Jason LaBarbera is the Coyotes backup.

Smith was shaken up on Saturday when he was run into behind the net by Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw. After staying on the ice for a while after the hit, he was able to stay in the game. Shaw had a disciplinary hearing for the collision, and we are still waiting for the final word on what sort of punishment (if any) he will receive.

He might be the one player on the Phoenix roster they can't be without if it has any chance of moving on past the first round. He's already faced 95 shots through the first two games, and finished with the third best save percentage in the NHL at .930.

For more hockey news, rumors and analysis, follow @EyeOnHockey and @agretz on Twitter and like us on Facebook.